One of my favorite quotes about what we do with the time that we have been given is from, “Lord of the Rings.” It is an exchange between Frodo and Gandalf:

Frodo: “I wish the ring had never come to me… I wish none of this had happened…”
Gandalf: “So do all who live to see such times, but that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”

That is what we must do my sisters and brothers in Christ. We must decide what to do with the time that has been given to us, trusting in God to lead us and to equip us along the way. A part of that process is opening ourselves to hear God and a willingness to say “yes” to the call.

Jesus calls to us saying, “Come follow me, and I will make you fishers of humankind.”  (Matthew 4:19; IL) We are asked to follow the one who teaches us that we are to: feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked, comfort the ill, visit those who are imprisoned, care for all of God’s creation, and to pray without ceasing.  There are times when we allow the busyness of our lives to distract and detract us from that which God asks us to do.

As we continue to move forward in the change(s) that we are experiencing as a family of faith, let us be intentional in committing ourselves to the calling God has placed upon our lives. Let us do the faithful work of opening our hearts to God and following the teachings of Jesus. As you seek to be intentional about your commitment to Christ and in finding where to use your strengths and talents within Peace Church, prayerfully consider each of the committees and outreach opportunities available to you. Our Mission team leads us in providing for the families at the Hope Center and various other outreaches. Our Faith Formation committee strives to keep at the fore our engagement with scripture and other teachings which echo the still speaking voice of God. The Men’s Group meets in fellowship with one another, but also provides outreach to some of our church family who are physically unable to be with us on Sunday mornings. The Youth Group has extended the call that they want to be in service locally and as far as our resources will allow them to go. As you seek to find your place within our church family, stand trusting that the still speaking God is present and has equipped you for service.